There are many sauna benefits related to physical health for our bodies, but saunas have also been proven to help people who suffer from mental health issues as well. Infrared saunas especially, have shown to have a positive impact on brain health and mental health. You should always take precautions before using a sauna, like hydrating and limiting the amount of time spent in the sauna. Once these factors are understood, you can experience the numerous brain and mental health benefits a sauna can give you. 

Saunas Decrease Depression

Saunas can really help people who struggle with depression because of the affect the heat has on the body. When inside a sauna, the body undergoes lots of stress because of the uncomfortable temperature and the amount of sweat coming from the body. Because of this, the brain produces euphoric hormones to counteract the stress placed on the body. Using a sauna consistently will produce more euphoric hormones over time and ultimately lower the amount of depression you might be feeling. 

Stress and Anxiety is Decreased

The main stress hormone in the body is called Cortisol. Studies have shown that when using a sauna consistently, cortisol levels are lowered. This means that stress levels will decrease along with it and you will feel more relaxed. Stress and anxiety are correlated, and using a sauna regularly can really help someone who struggles with these daily. 

Beta-Endorphins Increase

Beta-Endorphins are compounds created inside your body that contribute to pain-relief. During stressful, emotional, or painful situations, your brain will release these endorphins to help your current feeling about whatever situation you are in. Since your body undergoes discomfort from the intense heat when inside a sauna, your brain will release these endorphins to counteract the stress you might be feeling that is associated with the discomfort. Different studies show that beta-endorphins will be increased in environments like saunas because of the intense exposure to heat. 

Increase in Myelin Growth

Myelin is a microscopic white substance that is fatty and wraps itself around nerve cells. The purpose of myelin in the body is to increase the speed of nerve conditions. When exposed to severe heat, the hormone that enhances myelin production, prolactin, will start to increase. 

Risks of Dementia are Lowered

Lowing the risk of dementia is a huge mental benefit saunas can offer, especially since dementia is number three for leading causes of death in the United States, with cancer and cardiovascular disease being number one. By the year 2050, research suggests that 13 million people in America and 160 million people around the globe will be negatively affected by dementia. Studies have shown that people who regularly use saunas have immensely lowered their risk of developing dementia. This is especially important because there is currently no proper treatment for dementia. Saunas are a great alternative because they will help lower your chances of getting dementia in the first place. These sauna benefits will immensely help your mental health, and can get you on the road to having a healthier mind and lifestyle.